Hello,
My 13 and 11 year olds and I will be in Rome in late April, when I understand the city celebrates its birthday (2,770 this year!). Has anyone been to the celebration before? Is it worth altering our travel plans to be there for the day, or should I be avoiding the city because its a madhouse? They have never been to Rome before so I'm gearing to show them a special time, but don't know how big this event is, or if it includes things that would be interesting or exciting to them. I don't see information about it on the Italy tourism website and am having a hard time finding info otherwise. Any guidance / info anyone can provide would be much appreciated. Many thanks!
Posted by
Chicago
8243 posts
Avoid the day of the birthday It is too crowded for kids. The city is already on high alert with military presence carrying machine guns off peak
Posted by
Toledo, Ohio, US
11613 posts
I have been in Roma for the birthday a few times, and I think a lot depends on how much money the city has to spend on it in terms of special events. Most might not be particularly interesting to children.
I suggest you contact your hotel for information about what's going on, they can at least direct you to a website.
Posted by
Minnesota 🎒
16748 posts
The city is already on high alert with military presence carrying
machine guns off peak.
Please don't let this worry you? Rome isn't the only European city which has increased its security vigilance/enforcement; we experienced high levels of that in Paris as well clear back in 2009. Look at it as reassuring that extra eyes and ears are watching out for your well-being. :O)